Today marked the 16th anniversary of Emily’s diagnosis…

Cri du chat syndrome… Or CDC syndrome… Or 5P-

16 years ago, our life changed

This 15 months old little girl has changed us.

I write about Emily’s success, I tell you about all the wonderful things she does and I show you pictures that showcase my girl in the best light possible.

I told you about the day the genetic counsellors told us that she would never walk, talk, recognize us, show emotions, learn to eat…

I told you how she can do all of those things.

I don’t tell you about some of her challenges because she asked me not to.

The fact that she can ask me not to tell you some of her more private struggles is a success.

She understands that some things are private.

I do my best to take you into our world but I…

It broke my heart.

Although Emily has cri du chat syndrome, I have raised her to believe in herself.

Over the last 2 years, we talked about life after high school. We talked about the fact that she doesn’t have to do post secondary studies…

I guess I never realized that not having to go was not clear enough…

Just thinking about Thursday’s conversation brings tears to my eyes.

When I arrived home, Emily told me there was something in her bookbag for me to look at.

She was excited… really excited.

On Thursday,the students in grade 11 & 12 at Emily’s high school went to a post secondary “trade show” where Universities, colleges and trade skills schools were represented.

Emily told me which University she picked. She picked U de M (because it’s French and she speaks French) and was going to study musique (because she needs to get…